Methods for applying glutinous substances

ABSTRACT

A method of delivering a glutinous substance from a cartridge to an applicator is disclosed. The method comprises receiving the cartridge inside a sleeve through an inlet of the sleeve while a pressure cap is in an open position. The method also comprises moving the pressure cap into a closed position to sealingly couple the pressure cap with a trailing end of the cartridge and to sealingly couple the applicator with a leading end of the cartridge. The method further comprises applying pressure to the glutinous substance in the cartridge through the pressure input of the pressure cap to urge the glutinous substance from the cartridge into the applicator. Additionally, the method comprises moving the pressure cap into the open position to provide sufficient clearance sufficient for removal of the cartridge from the sleeve through the inlet of the sleeve.

BACKGROUND

Glutinous substances, such as sealants, adhesives, and fillers, areapplied to surfaces of structures or other objects for purposes ofsealing, corrosion resistance, and/or fixation, among others. Variousmanual tools for application of glutinous substances are commerciallyavailable. However, manual application of glutinous substances islabor-intensive, time-consuming, and difficult to control to a precisetolerance.

SUMMARY

Accordingly, systems, apparatuses and methods, intended to address atleast the above-identified concerns, would find utility.

The following is a non-exhaustive list of examples, which may or may notbe claimed, of the subject matter according to the present disclosure.

One example of the subject matter according to the present disclosurerelates to an apparatus for delivering a glutinous substance from acartridge to an applicator. The apparatus comprises a sleeve, comprisinga central axis, an inlet, and an outlet opposite the inlet. The sleeveis configured to receive the cartridge through the inlet. Additionally,the apparatus comprises a pressure-cap assembly coupled to the sleeve.The pressure-cap assembly comprises a pressure cap proximate the inletof the sleeve. With the cartridge received within the sleeve, thepressure cap is movable between, inclusively, a closed position, inwhich the pressure cap is in sealed engagement with a trailing end ofthe cartridge, and an open position, in which the pressure cap providesclearance sufficient for insertion of the cartridge inside the sleevethrough the inlet of the sleeve. The pressure cap comprises a pressureinput, through which pressure is selectively applied to the glutinoussubstance in the cartridge when the cartridge is received within thesleeve, the pressure cap is in the closed position, and a leading end ofthe cartridge is in sealed engagement with the applicator. Thepressure-cap assembly further comprises an actuator, coupled to thepressure cap and to the sleeve. The actuator is selectively operable tomove the pressure cap relative to the sleeve between, inclusively, theclosed position and the open position. The apparatus also comprises anapplicator interface proximate the outlet of the sleeve. The applicatorinterface is configured to releasably retain the applicator so that theapplicator is sealingly coupled with the leading end of the cartridgewhen the pressure cap is in the closed position.

Another example of the subject matter according to the presentdisclosure relates to a system for delivering a glutinous substance froma cartridge to a surface of a workpiece. The system comprises a robot,comprising a tool interface, an applicator, and an apparatus fordelivering the glutinous substance from the cartridge to the applicator.The apparatus comprises a robot interface, configured to be coupled tothe tool interface of the robot. The apparatus also comprises a sleeve,comprising a central axis, an inlet, and an outlet opposite the inlet.The sleeve is configured to receive the cartridge through the inlet. Theapparatus also comprises a pressure-cap assembly, coupled to the sleeve.The pressure-cap assembly comprises a pressure cap proximate the inletof the sleeve. With the cartridge received within the sleeve, thepressure cap is movable between, inclusively, a closed position, inwhich the pressure cap is in sealed engagement with a trailing end ofthe cartridge, and an open position, in which the pressure cap providesclearance sufficient for insertion of the cartridge inside the sleevethrough the inlet of the sleeve. The pressure cap comprises a pressureinput, through which pressure is selectively applied to the glutinoussubstance in the cartridge when the cartridge is received within thesleeve, the pressure cap is in the closed position, and a leading end ofthe cartridge is in sealed engagement with the applicator. Thepressure-cap assembly also comprises an actuator, coupled to thepressure cap and to the sleeve. The actuator is selectively operable tomove the pressure cap relative to the sleeve between, inclusively, theclosed position and the open position. The apparatus also comprises anapplicator interface proximate the outlet of the sleeve. The applicatorinterface is configured to releasably hold the applicator so that theapplicator is sealingly coupled with the leading end of the cartridgewhen the pressure cap is in the closed position and a controller. Thecontroller is operatively coupled with the robot and the apparatus.

Yet another example of the subject matter according to the presentdisclosure relates to a method of delivering a glutinous substance froma cartridge to an applicator. The method comprises receiving thecartridge inside a sleeve through an inlet of the sleeve while apressure cap, located proximate the inlet of the sleeve, is in an openposition. The cartridge has a leading end and a trailing end. The methodalso comprises moving the pressure cap, located proximate the inlet ofthe sleeve, into a closed position to sealingly couple the pressure capwith the trailing end of the cartridge and to sealingly couple theapplicator with the leading end of the cartridge. The method furthercomprises applying pressure to the glutinous substance in the cartridgethrough a pressure input of the pressure cap to urge the glutinoussubstance from the cartridge into the applicator. Additionally, themethod comprises moving the pressure cap into an open position toprovide clearance sufficient for removal of the cartridge from thesleeve through the inlet of the sleeve.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Having thus described examples of the present disclosure in generalterms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, whichare not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein like referencecharacters designate the same or similar parts throughout the severalviews, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system for delivering a glutinoussubstance from a cartridge to a surface of a workpiece, wherein thesystem includes an apparatus for delivering the glutinous substance fromthe cartridge to an applicator, according to one or more examples of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a schematic, perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 1,according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a schematic, perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 1,according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a schematic, side elevation view of the apparatus of FIG. 1,according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 is a schematic, cross-sectional side elevation view of a detailof the apparatus of FIG. 1, according to one or more examples of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a schematic, perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 1,according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is a schematic, perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 1,according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is a schematic, cross-sectional side elevation view of theapparatus of FIG. 1, according to one or more examples of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 9 is a schematic, perspective view of a detail of the apparatus ofFIG. 1, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10 is a schematic, perspective view of a detail of the apparatus ofFIG. 1, according to one or more examples of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 11A and 11B collectively are a block diagram of a method ofutilizing the apparatus of FIG. 1, according to one or more examples ofthe present disclosure;

FIG. 12 is a block diagram of aircraft production and servicemethodology; and

FIG. 13 is a schematic illustration of an aircraft.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In FIG. 1, referred to above, solid lines, if any, connecting variouselements and/or components may represent mechanical, electrical, fluid,optical, electromagnetic and other couplings and/or combinationsthereof. As used herein, “coupled” means associated directly as well asindirectly. For example, a member A may be directly associated with amember B, or may be indirectly associated therewith, e.g., via anothermember C. It will be understood that not all relationships among thevarious disclosed elements are necessarily represented. Accordingly,couplings other than those depicted in the block diagrams may alsoexist. Dashed lines, if any, connecting blocks designating the variouselements and/or components represent couplings similar in function andpurpose to those represented by solid lines; however, couplingsrepresented by the dashed lines may either be selectively provided ormay relate to alternative examples of the present disclosure. Likewise,elements and/or components, if any, represented with dashed lines,indicate alternative examples of the present disclosure. One or moreelements shown in solid and/or dashed lines may be omitted from aparticular example without departing from the scope of the presentdisclosure. Environmental elements, if any, are represented with dottedlines. Virtual (imaginary) elements may also be shown for clarity. Thoseskilled in the art will appreciate that some of the features illustratedin FIG. 1 may be combined in various ways without the need to includeother features described in FIG. 1, other drawing figures, and/or theaccompanying disclosure, even though such combination or combinationsare not explicitly illustrated herein. Similarly, additional featuresnot limited to the examples presented, may be combined with some or allof the features shown and described herein.

In FIGS. 11A, 11B, and 12, referred to above, the blocks may representoperations and/or portions thereof and lines connecting the variousblocks do not imply any particular order or dependency of the operationsor portions thereof. Blocks represented by dashed lines indicatealternative operations and/or portions thereof. Dashed lines, if any,connecting the various blocks represent alternative dependencies of theoperations or portions thereof. It will be understood that not alldependencies among the various disclosed operations are necessarilyrepresented. FIGS. 11A, 11B, and 12 and the accompanying disclosuredescribing the operations of the method(s) set forth herein should notbe interpreted as necessarily determining a sequence in which theoperations are to be performed. Rather, although one illustrative orderis indicated, it is to be understood that the sequence of the operationsmay be modified when appropriate. Accordingly, certain operations may beperformed in a different order or simultaneously. Additionally, thoseskilled in the art will appreciate that not all operations describedneed be performed.

In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth toprovide a thorough understanding of the disclosed concepts, which may bepracticed without some or all of these particulars. In other instances,details of known devices and/or processes have been omitted to avoidunnecessarily obscuring the disclosure. While some concepts will bedescribed in conjunction with specific examples, it will be understoodthat these examples are not intended to be limiting.

Unless otherwise indicated, the terms “first,” “second,” etc. are usedherein merely as labels, and are not intended to impose ordinal,positional, or hierarchical requirements on the items to which theseterms refer. Moreover, reference to, e.g., a “second” item does notrequire or preclude the existence of, e.g., a “first” or lower-numbereditem, and/or, e.g., a “third” or higher-numbered item.

Reference herein to “one example” means that one or more feature,structure, or characteristic described in connection with the example isincluded in at least one implementation. The phrase “one example” invarious places in the specification may or may not be referring to thesame example.

As used herein, a system, apparatus, structure, article, element,component, or hardware “configured to” perform a specified function isindeed capable of performing the specified function without anyalteration, rather than merely having potential to perform the specifiedfunction after further modification. In other words, the system,apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware“configured to” perform a specified function is specifically selected,created, implemented, utilized, programmed, and/or designed for thepurpose of performing the specified function. As used herein,“configured to” denotes existing characteristics of a system, apparatus,structure, article, element, component, or hardware which enable thesystem, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardwareto perform the specified function without further modification. Forpurposes of this disclosure, a system, apparatus, structure, article,element, component, or hardware described as being “configured to”perform a particular function may additionally or alternatively bedescribed as being “adapted to” and/or as being “operative to” performthat function.

Illustrative, non-exhaustive examples, which may or may not be claimed,of the subject matter according the present disclosure are providedbelow.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 2-10,apparatus 102 for delivering glutinous substance 168 from cartridge 166to applicator 154 is disclosed. Apparatus 102 comprises sleeve 106,comprising central axis 121, inlet 124, and outlet 128 opposite inlet124. Sleeve 106 is configured to receive cartridge 166 through inlet124. Additionally, apparatus 102 comprises pressure-cap assembly 104,coupled to sleeve 106. Pressure-cap assembly 104 comprises pressure cap110 proximate inlet 124 of sleeve 106. With cartridge 166 receivedwithin sleeve 106, pressure cap 110 is movable between, inclusively, aclosed position, in which pressure cap 110 is in sealed engagement withtrailing end 169 of cartridge 166, and an open position, in whichpressure cap 110 provides clearance sufficient for insertion ofcartridge 166 inside sleeve 106 through inlet 124 of sleeve 106.Pressure cap 110 comprises pressure input 118, through which pressure isselectively applied to glutinous substance 168 in cartridge 166 whencartridge 166 is received within sleeve 106, pressure cap 110 is inclosed position, and leading end 167 of cartridge 166 is in sealedengagement with applicator 154. Pressure-cap assembly 104 furthercomprises actuator 114, coupled to pressure cap 110 and to sleeve 106.Actuator 114 is selectively operable to move pressure cap 110 relativeto sleeve 106 between, inclusively, the closed position and the openposition. Apparatus 102 also comprises applicator interface 108,proximate outlet 128 of sleeve 106. Applicator interface 108 isconfigured to releasably retain applicator 154 so that applicator 154 issealingly coupled with leading end 167 of cartridge 166 when pressurecap 110 is in the closed position. The preceding subject matter of thisparagraph characterizes example 1 of the present disclosure.

Apparatus 102 is configured to facilitate a reduction in the labor,time, and inaccuracies associated with the application of glutinoussubstances onto surfaces of workpieces. Cartridge 166 of apparatus 102provides modular containment of glutinous substance 168. Sleeve 106 ofapparatus 102 enables a secure coupling of cartridge 166 to apparatus102. Pressure-cap assembly 104 allows both access to sleeve 106 for theinsertion of cartridge 166 into sleeve 106 and the application ofpressure to cartridge 166 for urging glutinous substance 168 out ofsleeve 106. Actuator 114 facilitates automated actuation of pressure-capassembly 104. Applicator interface 108 enables secure attachment ofapplicator 154 to apparatus 102 and quick release of applicator 154 fromapparatus 102. With cartridge 166 received within sleeve 106 andpressure cap 110 in a closed position, cartridge 166 is sealed withapplicator 154 to enable sealed flow of glutinous substance 168 fromcartridge 166 to applicator 154 via the application of pressure toglutinous substance 168 in cartridge 166.

Apparatus 102 can include pressure tubes 138 to facilitate thecommunication of pressure to and from various components of apparatus102. For example, pressure tubes 138 may communicate pressure topressure inputs 118. As an example, pressure tubes 138 may communicatepressure to and from actuator 114 to facilitate selective operation ofactuator 114. Also, pressure tubes 138 may communicate pressure topressure input 130 to facilitate ejection of cartridge 166 from sleeve106, such as after glutinous substance 168 has been emptied fromcartridge 166.

In some examples, various components of apparatus 102 are fixed tosleeve 106 via clamps 116, 132, 150. For example, actuator 114 is fixedto sleeve 106 by clamp 116, applicator interface 108 is fixed to sleeve106 by tube 194 secured about sleeve 106 by clamps 132, and brackets 148are fixed to sleeve 106 by clamps 132, 150. According to other examples,the various components of apparatus 102 are fixed to sleeve 106 usingother fixation techniques, such as fastening, adhering, co-forming, andthe like.

Actuator 114 can be any of various actuators known in the art, such aslinear actuators and rotary actuators, powered in any of various ways,such as pneumatically, electromagnetically, electrically, hydraulically,and the like. Pressure input 118 can be a pneumatic fitting in someexamples. As used herein, a central axis of an object is a longitudinalsymmetry axis of the object.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 2-4 and6-8, pressure, selectively applied to glutinous substance 168 incartridge 166 through pressure input 118 of pressure cap 110, ispneumatic pressure. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 2 of the present disclosure, wherein example 2also includes the subject matter according to example 1, above.

Selective pneumatic operation of pressure input 118 of pressure cap 110enables precise application of pneumatic pressure to glutinous substance168 in cartridge 166 to precisely control the flow of glutinoussubstance 168 out of cartridge 166 and into applicator 154. Moreover,selective pneumatic operation of pressure input 118 of pressure cap 110facilitates the use of automated pneumatic controls to control thepneumatic operation of pressure input 118 of pressure cap 110.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 3 and 8,pressure cap 110 further comprises gasket 111. Gasket 111 is configuredto form a seal between pressure cap 110 and interior surface 113 ofcartridge 166 when pressure cap 110 is in the closed position andapplicator 154 is retained by applicator interface 108. The precedingsubject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 3 of the presentdisclosure, wherein example 3 also includes the subject matter accordingto any one of examples 1 or 2, above.

Gasket 111, by forming seal between pressure cap 110 and interiorsurface 113 of cartridge 166, facilitates the containment of pressurefrom pressure input 118 of pressure cap 110 to within cartridge 166.

Gasket 111 can be an o-ring made from a pliable or compressiblematerial, such as rubber, silicone, and plastic polymers.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 2, 3, and7, pressure-cap assembly 104 further comprises arm 115. Arm 115 ispivotable about axis 117 that is fixed relative to sleeve 106 and isperpendicular to central axis 121 of sleeve 106. Pressure cap 110 iscoupled with arm 115. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 4 of the present disclosure, wherein example 4also includes the subject matter according to any one of examples 1-3,above.

Arm 115, being pivotable about axis 117 that is fixed relative to sleeve106 and is perpendicular to central axis 121 of sleeve 106, enablespressure cap 110 to be moved between the closed position, to sealinglyengage trailing end 169 of cartridge 166, and the open position, toprovide clearance sufficient for insertion of cartridge 166 insidesleeve 106 through inlet 124 of sleeve 106 and ejection of cartridge 166from sleeve 106. In other words, arm 115 allows pressure cap 110 to bepivoted into sealed engagement with cartridge 166 and pivoted away fromcartridge 166 to allow cartridge 166 to be inserted into or removed fromsleeve 106.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 2-4 and7, pressure-cap assembly 104 further comprises lock mechanism 112,mechanically coupling arm 115 with actuator 114. Furthermore, lockmechanism 112 is configured to releasably lock pressure cap 110 in theclosed position by releasably locking arm 115 relative to sleeve 106.The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 5of the present disclosure, wherein example 5 also includes the subjectmatter according to example 4, above.

Using lock mechanism 112 to releasably lock pressure cap 110 in theclosed position by releasably locking arm 115 relative to sleeve 106prevents disengagement between pressure cap 110 and cartridge 166 shouldactuator 114 fail. In other words, in the event actuator 114 fails tourge pressure cap 110 in closed position, such as due to loss ofpressure to or malfunction of actuator 114, while pressure is applied toglutinous substance 168 in cartridge 166, lock mechanism 112 lockspressure cap 110 in the closed position to prevent pressure withincartridge 116 from inadvertently moving pressure cap 110 out of theclosed position.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 2-4 and7, actuator 114 is selectively operable to move lock mechanism 112between, inclusively, a locked position, in which arm 115 is releasablylocked relative to sleeve 106 so pressure cap 110 is releasably lockedin the closed position, and an unlocked position, in which arm 115 isarranged relative to sleeve 106 so that pressure cap 110 is in the openposition. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizesexample 6 of the present disclosure, wherein example 6 also includes thesubject matter according to example 5, above.

Actuator 114 is configured to enable lock mechanism 112 to unlockpressure cap 110 and allow pressure cap 110 to move out of the closedposition by moving lock mechanism 112 relative to arm 115, via selectiveoperation of actuator 114, while pressure cap 110 is sealingly engagedwith cartridge 166. In other words, lock mechanism 112 in the lockedposition will lock pressure cap 110 in the closed position untilactuator 114 moves lock mechanism 112 relative to pressure cap 110 tounlock lock mechanism 112 and move pressure cap 110 into the openposition.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 2-4 and7, actuator 114 is pneumatically operable. When lock mechanism 112 is inthe locked position, lock mechanism 112 remains in the locked positionif actuator 114 loses pressure. The preceding subject matter of thisparagraph characterizes example 7 of the present disclosure, whereinexample 7 also includes the subject matter according to example 6,above.

In the event actuator 114 loses pressure, while pressure is applied toglutinous substance 168 in cartridge 166, lock mechanism 112 lockspressure cap 110 in the closed position to prevent pressure withincartridge 116 from inadvertently moving pressure cap 110 out of theclosed position.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 2-4 and7, lock mechanism 112 comprises an over-center linkage. The precedingsubject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 8 of the presentdisclosure, wherein example 8 also includes the subject matter accordingto any one of examples 5-7, above.

The over-center linkage of lock mechanism 112 enables quick, easy, andeffective locking and unlocking of the lock mechanism.

The over-center linkage can be a passive lock mechanism that is simplyconstructed, yet effective at preventing backdriving. For example, theover-center linkage includes first and second linkages eachindependently pivotable about the same first axis. The first linkage ispivotally fixed to arm 115 and pivots about a second axis. The secondlinkage is pivotally fixed relative to sleeve 106 and pivots about athird axis. As arm 115 rotates to move pressure cap 110 toward closedposition, the first linkage rotates about the first axis in a firstrotational direction and the second linkage rotates about the first axisin a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational directionuntil the first, second, and third axes are aligned, which positions theover-center linkage in an over-center position. Further rotation of arm115 to move pressure cap 110 into the closed position results in theover-center linkage moving beyond the over-center position, which locksarm 115 and prevents arm 115 from rotating pressure cap 110 toward theopen position. The over-center linkage is unlocked to allow the arm 115to rotate pressure cap 110 toward the open position by concurrentlypivoting, via actuator 114, the first linkage about the first axis inthe second rotational direction and pivoting the second linkage aboutthe first axis in the first rotational direction until the over-centerlinkage moves into and beyond the over-center position.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 2, 3, and6, pressure cap 110 is pivotable relative to arm 115. Pressure-capassembly 104 further comprises biasing element 122, configured totorsionally bias pressure cap 110 relative to arm 115. The precedingsubject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 9 of the presentdisclosure, wherein example 9 also includes the subject matter accordingto any one of examples 4-8, above.

Because arm 115, to which pressure cap 110 is coupled, rotates to movepressure cap 110 into the closed positioned, in sealed engagement withtrailing end 169 of cartridge 166, enabling pressure cap 110 to pivotrelative to arm 115 allows pressure cap 110 to maintain coaxialalignment with trailing end 169 of cartridge 166 as arm 115 rotates. Bytorsionally biasing pressure cap 110, biasing element 122 ensurespressure cap 110 is coaxially aligned with trailing end 169 of cartridge166 as pressure cap 110 initially engages trailing end 169 of cartridge166. In this manner, pressure cap 110 can properly engage and seatwithin trailing end 169 of cartridge 166 without binding with orcrookedly entering trailing end 169 of cartridge 166. As used herein, to“torsionally bias” means to continuously apply a moment, which may ormay not have a constant magnitude, but is always applied in the samedirection and has a magnitude greater than zero.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 2, 3, and6, biasing element 122 comprises a torsion spring. The preceding subjectmatter of this paragraph characterizes example 10 of the presentdisclosure, wherein example 10 also includes the subject matteraccording to example 9, above.

A torsion spring facilitates a passive and simple way to torsionallybias pressure cap 110 relative to arm 115.

The torsion spring can be coupled at one end to arm 115 and at anotherend to pressure cap 110. In some examples, the torsion spring includes acoiled or twisted torsion bar that biases one end of the torsion springrelative to the other end of the torsion spring.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 4, 5, 9,and 10, apparatus 102 further comprises pressure input 130 proximateoutlet 128 of sleeve 106. Pressure is selectively applied throughpressure input 130 to cartridge 166 to eject cartridge 166 from sleeve106 through inlet 124 of sleeve 106. The preceding subject matter ofthis paragraph characterizes example 11 of the present disclosure,wherein example 11 also includes the subject matter according to any oneof examples 1-10, above.

Selective operation of pressure input 130 facilitates the removal ofcartridge 166 from sleeve 106, such as after glutinous substance 168 hasbeen emptied from cartridge 166. In some examples, when cartridge 166 isreceived within sleeve 106, because only a small portion of cartridge166 may be accessible for gripping from outside sleeve 106 or becausecartridge 166 may become at least partially stuck within sleeve 106, itmay be difficult to remove cartridge 166 from sleeve 106. Pressure input130 facilitates ease of removal of cartridge 166 from sleeve 106 byincreasing pressure within sleeve 106 proximate outlet 128 of sleeve106, which urges movement of cartridge 166 through sleeve 106 towardsand out of inlet 124 of sleeve 106.

Pressure input 130 can be a pneumatic fitting in some examples.Moreover, pressure can be communicated to pressure input 130 throughpressure tube 138.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 4, 5, 9,and 10, pressure input 130 communicates pressure into sleeve 106 throughoutlet 128 of sleeve 106. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 12 of the present disclosure, wherein example 12also includes the subject matter according to example 11, above.

Pressure input 130 communicates pressure into sleeve 106 through outlet128 of sleeve 106 to increase pressure within sleeve 106 between sleeve106 proximate outlet 128 of sleeve 106 and cartridge 166, which urgesmovement of cartridge 166 through sleeve 106 towards and out of inlet124 of sleeve 106.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 4, 5, 9,and 10, pressure, selectively applied to cartridge 166 through pressureinput 130, is pneumatic pressure. The preceding subject matter of thisparagraph characterizes example 13 of the present disclosure, whereinexample 13 also includes the subject matter according to example 12,above.

Selective pneumatic operation of pressure input 130 enables preciseapplication of pneumatic pressure into sleeve 106 through outlet 128 ofsleeve 106 to precisely control the timing and rate at which cartridge166 is ejected from sleeve 106 through inlet 124 of sleeve 106.Moreover, selective pneumatic operation of pressure input 130facilitates the use of automated pneumatic controls to control thepneumatic operation of pressure input 130.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 4 and 7,apparatus 102 further comprises control valve 180 that is pneumaticallycoupled to pressure input 118 of pressure cap 110 and to actuator 114.Control valve 180 is configured to disable operation of actuator 114 bypreventing pressure from being communicated to actuator 114 when, withpressure cap 110 in the closed position, pressure is applied toglutinous substance 168 in cartridge 166 through pressure input 118. Thepreceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 14 ofthe present disclosure, wherein example 14 also includes the subjectmatter according to any one of examples 1-13, above.

Control valve 180 prevents actuator 114 from inadvertently openingpressure cap 110 while pressure is being applied to glutinous substance168 in cartridge 166 through pressure input 118. Preventing pressure cap110 from opening while pressure is being applied to glutinous substance168 due to inadvertent actuation of actuator 114 ensures pressure withincartridge 166 is not inadvertently released.

In some examples, control valve 180 is a two-way, normally open,air-piloted valve manufactured by Clippard Instrument Laboratory, Inc.of Cincinnati, Ohio.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 2-4 and6-8, apparatus 102 further comprises pressure sensor 158, configured tobe coupled to applicator 154. The preceding subject matter of thisparagraph characterizes example 15 of the present disclosure, whereinexample 15 also includes the subject matter according to any one ofexamples 1-14, above.

Pressure sensor 158 enables detection of the pressure of glutinoussubstance 168 in applicator 154. The pressure of glutinous substance 168in applicator 154 detected by pressure sensor 158 can be used to controlthe rate at which glutinous substance 168 flows from cartridge 166 toapplicator 154. Further, pressure sensor 158 being configured to becoupled to applicator 154 allows pressure sensor 158 to remain part ofapparatus 102 while being decoupleable from applicator 154 to removeapplicator 154 from apparatus 102 or being coupleable to applicator 154after applicator 154 is coupled to apparatus 102.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 2, 3, and6, apparatus 102 further comprises pressure-signal conditioner 144,electrically coupled to pressure sensor 158. The preceding subjectmatter of this paragraph characterizes example 16 of the presentdisclosure, wherein example 16 also includes the subject matteraccording to example 15, above.

Pressure-signal conditioner 144 enables communication ofpressure-related information from pressure sensor 158 to controller 157in a format useable by controller 157. Accordingly, pressure-signalconditioner 144 provides data format conversion functionality on-boardapparatus 102, rather than at controller 157.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 2-4 and6-8, apparatus 102 further comprises temperature sensor 160, configuredto be coupled to applicator 154. The preceding subject matter of thisparagraph characterizes example 17 of the present disclosure, whereinexample 17 also includes the subject matter according to any one ofexamples 1-16, above.

Temperature sensor 160 enables detection of the temperature of glutinoussubstance 168 in applicator 154. The temperature of glutinous substance168 in applicator 154 detected by temperature sensor 160 can be used tocontrol the rate at which glutinous substance 168 flows from cartridge166 to applicator 154. Further, temperature sensor 160 being configuredto be coupled to applicator 154 allows temperature sensor 160 to remainpart of apparatus 102 while being decoupleable from applicator 154 toremove applicator 154 from apparatus 102 or being coupleable toapplicator 154 after applicator 154 is coupled to apparatus 102.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 4 and 7,apparatus 102 further comprises temperature-signal conditioner 142,electrically coupled to temperature sensor 160. The preceding subjectmatter of this paragraph characterizes example 18 of the presentdisclosure, wherein example 18 also includes the subject matteraccording to example 17, above.

Temperature-signal conditioner 142 enables communication oftemperature-related information from temperature sensor 160 tocontroller 157 in a format useable by controller 157. Accordingly,temperature-signal conditioner 142 provides data format conversionfunctionality on-board apparatus 102, rather than at controller 157.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 5 and8-10, applicator interface 108 comprises receptacle 182 that iscross-sectionally complementary to receptacle interface 198 ofapplicator 154. Applicator interface 108 further comprises retainer 184,rotatable relative to receptacle 182. The preceding subject matter ofthis paragraph characterizes example 19 of the present disclosure,wherein example 19 also includes the subject matter according to any oneof examples 1-18, above.

Receptacle 182 of applicator interface 108 being cross-sectionallycomplementary to receptacle interface 198 of applicator 154, along withretainer 184, ensures applicator 154 is securely coupled to applicatorinterface 108 by providing a relatively tight fit between receptacle 182of applicator interface 108 and receptacle interface 198 of applicator154.

In some examples, the shapes of receptacle 182 of applicator interface108 and receptacle interface 198 of applicator 154 are non-round (e.g.,rectangular) such that, when receptacle interface 198 is received withinreceptacle 182, rotation of applicator 154 relative to applicatorinterface 108 is prevented. According to yet some examples, receptacleinterface 198 of applicator 154 is nestably engageable with receptacle182 of applicator interface 108.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 5 and8-10, retainer 184 comprises aperture 186. Aperture 186 is configured sothat receptacle interface 198 of applicator 154 is retained insideapplicator interface 108 when retainer 184 is in at least one retainingorientation relative to receptacle 182. Aperture 186 is also configuredso that receptacle interface 198 of applicator 154 is removable fromapplicator interface 108 when retainer 184 is in at least one releasingorientation relative to receptacle 182. The preceding subject matter ofthis paragraph characterizes example 20 of the present disclosure,wherein example 20 also includes the subject matter according to example19, above.

Use of retainer 184 allows for quick and easy secure coupling ofapplicator 154 to applicator interface 108 and decoupling of applicator154 from applicator interface 108. Retainer 184 can be reorientedbetween the at least one retaining orientation and the at least onereleasing orientation to allow for secure coupling of applicator 154 toapplicator interface 108 and decoupling of applicator 154 fromapplicator interface 108. In one example, retainer 184 is a disk-likeelement that is rotatable to orient retainer 184 between the at leastone retainer orientation and the at least one releasing orientation.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 5 and8-10, aperture 186 of retainer 184 has a shape identical to that of across-section of receptacle 182. The cross-section of receptacle 182 isperpendicular to central axis 121 of sleeve 106. The preceding subjectmatter of this paragraph characterizes example 21 of the presentdisclosure, wherein example 21 also includes the subject matteraccording to example 20, above.

Aperture 186 of retainer 184 having an identical shape as thecross-section of receptacle 182, enables receptacle interface 198 ofapplicator 154 to be inserted through aperture 186 of retainer 184 intoreceptacle 182, or removed through aperture 186 of retainer 184 fromreceptacle 182, when retainer 184 is in the at least one releasingorientation, and enables receptacle interface 198 of applicator 154 tobe retained within receptacle 182 when retainer 184 is oriented into theat least one retaining orientation. More specifically, because aperture186 of retainer 184 has a shape identical to that of a cross-section ofreceptacle 182, when in the at least one releasing orientation, noportion of retainer 184 covers receptacle 182 to allow insertion andremoval of receptacle interface 198 into and out of receptacle 182, andwhen in the at least one retaining orientation, some portion of retainer184 covers receptacle 182 to retain receptacle interface 198 withinreceptacle 182.

Referring generally to, e.g., FIG. 1 and particularly to FIGS. 5, 9, and10, retainer 184 comprises at least one grip element 188, extending fromretainer 184. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 22 of the present disclosure, wherein example 22also includes the subject matter according to any one of examples 19-21,above.

At least one grip element 188 facilitates the manual gripping ofretainer 184 for rotating retainer 184. In other words, at least onegrip element 188 can be easily gripped (e.g., pinched or received) by auser to manually rotate retainer 184.

In some examples, at least one grip element 188 can be any of variousprotrusions, such as posts, knobs, bars, spikes, projections, and thelike, extending from retainer 184. According to yet other examples, atleast one grip element 188 can be any of various depressions in retainer184 with which a user may engage. At least one grip element 188 mayinclude surface features or materials configured to enhance a user'sgrip of at least one grip element 188.

Referring generally to, e.g., FIG. 1 and particularly to FIGS. 5, 9, and10, applicator interface 108 comprises plurality of detents 192,configured to provide the at least one retaining orientation of retainer184 relative to receptacle 182 and at least one releasing orientation ofretainer 184 relative to receptacle 182. Each of plurality of detents192 is configured to selectively releasably fix retainer 184 relative toreceptacle 182 in one of the at least one retaining orientation or theat least one releasing orientation relative to receptacle 182. Thepreceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 23 ofthe present disclosure, wherein example 23 also includes the subjectmatter according to any of the examples 19-22, above.

Plurality of detents 192 enable retainer 184 to be fixed in oneorientation, selectively released from that orientation, and fixed inanother orientation. Accordingly, plurality of detents 192 facilitateselectively orienting retainer 184 between multiple orientations andreleasably fixing retainer 184 in a respective one of the multipleorientations. In this manner, a user can quickly and easily switch theorientation of retainer 184 between multiple orientations while ensuringretainer 184 will be releasably fixed in a selected orientation.

In some examples, each of plurality of detents 192 includes a projection(e.g., ball or pin) biased, via a biasing element (e.g., spring), intoengagement with one of multiple apertures 190 formed in retainer 184.The position of each aperture 190 on retainer 184 ensures thatengagement of the projection of one of plurality of detents 192 with oneof aperture 190 orients retainer 184 in one of the at least onereleasing orientation or one of the at least one retaining orientation.For example, the position of apertures 190 on retainer 184 ensures thatengagement of the projection of one of plurality of detents 192 with oneaperture 190 orients retainer 184 in one of the at least one releasingorientation or one of the at least one retaining orientation, andengagement of the projection of the one of plurality of detents 192 withan adjacent aperture 190 orients retainer 184 in the other of the atleast one releasing orientation or one of the at least one retainingorientation. Plurality of detents 192 release retainer 184 when bias ofbiasing element is overcome via application of rotational pressure toretainer 184 by a user.

Referring generally to, e.g., FIG. 1 and particularly to FIGS. 9 and 10,the at least one retaining orientation of retainer 184 relative toreceptacle 182 is at least four retaining orientations and the at leastone releasing orientation of retainer 184 relative to receptacle 182 isat least four releasing orientations. The preceding subject matter ofthis paragraph characterizes example 24 of the present disclosure,wherein example 24 also includes the subject matter according to example23, above.

The at least four retaining orientations of retainer 184 relative toreceptacle 182 and the at least four releasing orientations of retainer184 relative to receptacle 182 enable flexibility when rotating retainer184 to switch between a releasing orientation and a retainingorientation.

Referring generally to, e.g., FIG. 1 and particularly to FIGS. 9 and 10,the at least one retaining orientation of retainer 184 relative toreceptacle 182 is at least six retaining orientations and the at leastone releasing orientation of retainer 184 relative to receptacle 182 isat least six releasing orientations. The preceding subject matter ofthis paragraph characterizes example 25 of the present disclosure,wherein example 25 also includes the subject matter according to example23, above.

The at least six retaining orientations of retainer 184 relative toreceptacle 182 and the at least six releasing orientations of retainer184 relative to receptacle 182 enable even more flexibility whenrotating retainer 184 to switch between a releasing orientation and aretaining orientation.

Referring generally to, e.g., FIG. 1 and particularly to FIGS. 4 and6-8, apparatus 102 further comprises robot interface 136, coupled withsleeve 106 and configured to be releasably coupled to robot 152. Thepreceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 26 ofthe present disclosure, wherein example 26 also includes the subjectmatter according to any one of examples 1-25, above.

Robot interface 136 promotes quick coupling of apparatus 102 with robot152 and quick releasing of apparatus 102 from robot 152. Additionally,robot interface 136 facilitates quick coupling of communication linesbetween apparatus 102 and robot 152. For example, robot interface 136may enable automated coupling of apparatus 102 with robot 152 andautomated releasing of apparatus 102 from robot 152.

In some examples, robot interface 136 can be a tool-side portion of apneumatic quick-change mechanism and robot 152 can include toolinterface 156 of the pneumatic quick-change mechanism.

Referring generally to, e.g., FIG. 1 and particularly to FIGS. 2-4 and6-8, apparatus 102 further comprises brackets 148, coupled with sleeve106. Brackets 148 are configured to engage tool stand 196. The precedingsubject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 27 of the presentdisclosure, wherein example 27 also includes the subject matteraccording to any one of examples 1-26, above.

Brackets 148 facilitate engagement with tool stand 196 for storingapparatus 102 when not in use.

According to some examples, brackets include apertures that receiverespective engagement features of tool stand 196.

Referring generally to, e.g., FIG. 1 and particularly to FIGS. 2-10,system 100 for delivering glutinous substance 168 from cartridge 166 tosurface 172 of workpiece 170 is disclosed. System 100 comprises robot152, comprising tool interface 156. System 100 also comprises applicator154 and apparatus 102 for delivering glutinous substance 168 fromcartridge to applicator 154. Apparatus 102 comprises robot interface136, configured to be coupled to tool interface 156 of robot 152.Apparatus 102 also comprises sleeve 106, comprising central axis 121.Sleeve 106 further comprises inlet 124 and outlet 128, opposite inlet124. Sleeve 106 is configured to receive cartridge 166 through inlet124. Apparatus 102 also comprises pressure-cap assembly 104, coupled tosleeve 106. Pressure-cap assembly 104 comprises pressure cap 110,proximate inlet 124 of sleeve 106. With cartridge 166 received withinsleeve 106, pressure cap 110 is movable between, inclusively, a closedposition, in which pressure cap 110 is in sealed engagement withtrailing end 169 of cartridge 166, and an open position, in whichpressure cap 110 provides clearance sufficient for insertion ofcartridge 166 inside sleeve 106 through inlet 124 of sleeve 106.Pressure cap 110 comprises pressure input 118, through which pressure isselectively applied to glutinous substance 168 in cartridge 166 whencartridge 166 is received within sleeve 106, pressure cap 110 is in theclosed position, and leading end 167 of cartridge 166 is in sealedengagement with applicator 154. Pressure-cap assembly 104 also comprisesactuator 114, coupled to pressure cap 110 and to sleeve 106. Actuator114 is selectively operable to move pressure cap 110 relative to sleeve106 between, inclusively, the closed position and the open position.Apparatus 102 also comprises applicator interface 108, proximate outlet128 of sleeve 106. Applicator interface 108 is configured to releasablyhold applicator 154 so that applicator 154 is sealingly coupled withleading end 167 of cartridge 166 when pressure cap 110 is in the closedposition. System 100 further includes controller 157, operativelycoupled with robot 152 and apparatus 102. The preceding subject matterof this paragraph characterizes example 28 of the present disclosure.

System 100 is configured to facilitate a reduction in the labor, time,and inaccuracies associated with the application of glutinous substancesonto surfaces of workpieces. Cartridge 166 of apparatus 102 providesmodular containment of glutinous substance 168. Sleeve 106 of apparatus102 enables a secure coupling of cartridge 166 to apparatus 102.Pressure-cap assembly 104 allows both access to sleeve 106 for theinsertion of cartridge 166 into sleeve 106 and the application ofpressure to cartridge 166 for urging glutinous substance 168 out ofsleeve 106. Actuator 114 facilitates automated actuation of pressure-capassembly 104. Applicator interface 108 enables secure attachment ofapplicator 154 to apparatus 102 and quick release of applicator 154 fromapparatus 102. With cartridge 166 received within sleeve 106 andpressure cap 110 in a closed position, cartridge 166 is sealed withapplicator 154 to enable sealed flow of glutinous substance 168 fromcartridge 166 to applicator 154 via the application of pressure toglutinous substance 168 in cartridge 166.

Apparatus 102 can include pressure tubes 138 to facilitate thecommunication of pressure to and from various components of apparatus102. For example, pressure tubes 138 may communicate pressure topressure inputs 118. As an example, pressure tubes 138 may communicatepressure to and from actuator 114 to facilitate selective operation ofactuator 114. Also, pressure tubes 138 may communicate pressure topressure input 130 to facilitate ejection of cartridge 166 from sleeve106, such as after glutinous substance 168 has been emptied fromcartridge 166.

In some examples, various components of apparatus 102 are fixed tosleeve 106 via clamps 116, 132, 150. For example, actuator 114 is fixedto sleeve 106 by clamp 116, applicator interface 108 is fixed to sleeve106 by clamps 132, and brackets 148 are fixed to sleeve 106 by clamps132, 150. According to other examples, the various components ofapparatus 102 are fixed to sleeve 106 using other fixation techniques,such as fastening, adhering, co-forming, and the like.

Actuator 114 can be any of various actuators known in the art, such aslinear actuators and rotary actuators, powered in any of various ways,such as pneumatically, electromagnetically, electrically, hydraulically,and the like. Pressure input 118 can be a pneumatic fitting in someexamples.

Referring generally to, e.g., FIG. 1 and particularly to FIGS. 4 and6-8, system 100 further comprises pressure source 162. Controller 157 isconfigured to cause pressure source 162 to selectively provide pressureto tool interface 156 of robot 152. Tool interface 156 of robot 152 isconfigured to pneumatically communicate the pressure, received frompressure source 162, to robot interface 136 of apparatus 102. Robotinterface 136 of apparatus 102 is configured to pneumaticallycommunicate the pressure, received from tool interface 156 of robot 152,to pressure input 118 of pressure cap 110 and to actuator 114. Thepreceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 29 ofthe present disclosure, wherein example 29 also includes the subjectmatter according to example 28, above.

Robot interface 136 and tool interface 136 enable reliable pneumaticcommunication of pressure from pressure source 162 to apparatus 102 forpneumatic operation of apparatus 102. Furthermore, robot interface 136and tool interface 156 promote quick coupling of apparatus 102 withrobot 152 and quick releasing of apparatus 102 from robot 152.Additionally, robot interface 136 and tool interface 156 facilitatequick coupling of communication lines between apparatus 102 and robot152. For example, robot interface 136 and tool interface 156 may enableautomated coupling of apparatus 102 with robot 152 and automatedreleasing of apparatus 102 from robot 152.

Referring generally to, e.g., FIG. 1 and particularly to FIGS. 2-4 and6-8, system 100 further comprises at least one of pressure sensor 158,configured to sense pressure of glutinous substance 168 in applicator154, or temperature sensor 160, configured to sense temperature ofglutinous substance 168 in applicator 154. System 100 also comprises atleast one of pressure-signal conditioner 144, electrically coupled topressure sensor 158, or temperature-signal conditioner 142, electricallycoupled to temperature sensor 160. Controller 157 is operatively coupledwith pressure source 162 and further configured to regulate the pressureof glutinous substance 168 in applicator 154. That pressure iscommunicated from pressure source 162 to pressure input 118 of pressurecap 110 via tool interface 156 of robot 152 and robot interface 136 ofapparatus 102. Controller 157 is configured to regulate the pressure ofglutinous substance 168 in applicator 154 responsive to, at least inpart, at least one of pressure data, received from pressure-signalconditioner 144, or temperature data, received from temperature-signalconditioner 142. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 30 of the present disclosure, wherein example 30also includes the subject matter according to example 29, above.

Pressure sensor 158 enables detection of the pressure of glutinoussubstance 168 in applicator 154. The pressure of glutinous substance 168in applicator 154 detected by pressure sensor 158 can be used bycontroller 157 to control the rate at which glutinous substance 168flows from cartridge 166 to applicator 154. Further, pressure sensor 158being configured to be coupled to applicator 154 allows pressure sensor158 to remain part of apparatus 102 while being decoupleable fromapplicator 154 to remove applicator 154 from apparatus 102 or beingcoupleable to applicator 154 after applicator 154 is coupled toapparatus 102.

Pressure-signal conditioner 144 enables communication ofpressure-related information from pressure sensor 158 to controller 157in a format useable by controller 157. Accordingly, pressure-signalconditioner 144 provides data format conversion functionality on-boardapparatus 102, rather than at controller 157.

Temperature sensor 160 enables detection of the temperature of glutinoussubstance 168 in applicator 154. The temperature of glutinous substance168 in applicator 154 detected by temperature sensor 160 can be used tocontrol the rate at which glutinous substance 168 flows from cartridge166 to applicator 154. Further, temperature sensor 160 being configuredto be coupled to applicator 154 allows temperature sensor 160 to remainpart of apparatus 102 while being decoupleable from applicator 154 toremove applicator 154 from apparatus 102 or being coupleable toapplicator 154 after applicator 154 is coupled to apparatus 102.

Temperature-signal conditioner 142 enables communication oftemperature-related information from temperature sensor 160 tocontroller 157 in a format useable by controller 157. Accordingly,temperature-signal conditioner 142 provides data format conversionfunctionality on-board apparatus 102, rather than at controller 157.

Using controller 157 to regulate the pressure communicated from pressuresource 162 responsive to, at least in part, at least one of pressuredata, received from pressure-signal conditioner 144, or temperaturedata, received from temperature-signal conditioner 142 facilitates aprecise and predictable flow of glutinous substance 168 from applicatorto surface 172 of workpiece 170.

Referring generally to, e.g., FIG. 1 and particularly to FIGS. 2, 3, and6-8, the pressure, communicated to pressure input 118, is that insidesleeve 106. A delivery rate of glutinous substance 168 from cartridge166 to applicator 254 is proportional to the pressure inside sleeve 106.The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 31of the present disclosure, wherein example 31 also includes the subjectmatter according to example 30, above.

Regulating the pressure communicated from pressure source 162 toregulate the delivery rate of glutinous substance 168 from cartridge 166to applicator 154 facilitates a precise and predictable flow ofglutinous substance 168 from applicator to surface 172 of workpiece 170.

Referring generally to, e.g., FIG. 1 and particularly to FIGS. 6 and 7,system 100 further comprises input/output connector 140, communicativelycoupling the at least one of pressure-signal conditioner 144 ortemperature-signal conditioner 142 with controller 157. The precedingsubject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 32 of the presentdisclosure, wherein example 32 also includes the subject matteraccording to any one of examples 30 or 31, above.

Input/output connector 140 facilitates a convenient and reliableelectrical-communication connection between controller 157 and at leastone of pressure-signal conditioner 144 or temperature-signal conditioner142.

Referring generally to, e.g., FIG. 1 and particularly to FIGS. 4 and6-8, the system further comprises pressure amplifier 165, pneumaticallycoupled with pressure source 162. The pressure, generated by pressuresource 162, is a first pressure. Pressure amplifier 165 is configured toincrease the first pressure to a second pressure. Controller 157 isfurther configured to cause pressure source 162 to selectively providethe first pressure to tool interface 156 of robot 152 and to causepressure amplifier 165 to selectively provide the second pressure totool interface 156 of robot 152. Tool interface 156 of robot 152 isconfigured to pneumatically communicate the first pressure, receivedfrom pressure source 162, to robot interface 136 of apparatus 102 and topneumatically communicate the second pressure, received from pressureamplifier 165, to robot interface 136 of apparatus 102. Robot interface136 of apparatus 102 is configured to pneumatically communicate thefirst pressure, received from tool interface 156 of robot 152, toactuator 114 and to pneumatically communicate the second pressure,received from tool interface 156 of robot 152, to first pressure input118 of pressure cap 110. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 33 of the present disclosure, wherein example 33also includes the subject matter according to any one of examples 29-32,above.

Air amplifier 165 enables pneumatic communication of multiple pressuresfrom pressure source 162 to apparatus 102 for pneumatically operatingmultiple components of apparatus 102. Robot interface 136 and toolinterface 156 promote quick coupling of apparatus 102 with robot 152 andquick releasing of apparatus 102 from robot 152. Additionally, robotinterface 136 and tool interface 156 facilitate quick coupling ofcommunication lines between apparatus 102 and robot 152. For example,robot interface 136 and tool interface 156 may enable automated couplingof apparatus 102 with robot 152 and automated releasing of apparatus 102from robot 152.

Air amplifier 165 can be configured to provide pressures up to, forexample, 300 psi. In some examples, air amplifier 165 includes amanifold with independently-controllable valves each configured toregulate air flow to different locations of tool interface 156.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 5 and8-10, applicator interface 108 comprises receptacle 182. Applicator 154comprises receptacle interface 198. Receptacle 182 of applicatorinterface 108 and receptacle interface 198 of applicator 154 have arunning fit therebetween. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 34 of the present disclosure, wherein example 34also includes the subject matter according to any one of examples 28-34,above.

The running fit between receptacle 182 of applicator interface 108 andreceptacle interface 198, along with retainer 184, ensures applicator154 is securely coupled to applicator interface 108 by providing asufficiently tight fit between receptacle 182 of applicator interface108 and receptacle interface 198 of applicator 154 to prevent noticeableplay therebetween. As used herein, a running fit between two partsproduces no noticeable clearance between these parts after assembly.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 5 and8-10, receptacle 182 of applicator interface 108 and receptacleinterface 198 of applicator 154 have cross-sectionally complementaryshapes. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizesexample 35 of the present disclosure, wherein example 35 also includesthe subject matter according to example 34, above.

Receptacle 182 of applicator interface 108 having a shape that iscross-sectionally complementary to a shape of receptacle interface 198of applicator 154, along with retainer 184, ensures applicator 154 issecurely coupled to applicator interface 108 by providing a relativelytight fit between receptacle 182 of applicator interface 108 andreceptacle interface 198 of applicator 154.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 5 and8-10, a cross-section of receptacle 182 of applicator interface 108,perpendicular to central axis 121 of sleeve 106, is non-circular. Thepreceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 36 ofthe present disclosure, wherein example 36 also includes the subjectmatter according to any one of examples 34 or 35, above.

The cross-section of receptacle 182 of applicator interface 108 beingnon-circular ensures applicator 154 does not rotate relative toapplicator interface 108.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIGS. 5 and8-10, applicator interface 108 comprises retainer 184, rotatablerelative to receptacle 182 of applicator interface 108 and receptacleinterface 198 of applicator 154 with receptacle interface 198 ofapplicator 154 received within receptacle 182 of applicator interface108. Retainer 184 of applicator interface 108 is rotatable between atleast one first position, in which retainer 184 engages receptacleinterface 198 of applicator 154 to retain applicator 154, and at leastone second position, in which retainer 184 provides clearance sufficientfor receptacle interface 198 of applicator 154 to be removed from orreceived within receptacle 182 of applicator interface 108. Thepreceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 37 ofthe present disclosure, wherein example 37 also includes the subjectmatter according to any one of examples 34-36, above.

Use of retainer 184 allows for quick and easy secure coupling ofapplicator 154 to applicator interface 108 and decoupling of applicator154 from applicator interface 108. Retainer 184 can be reorientedbetween the at least one retaining orientation and the at least onereleasing orientation to allow for secure coupling of applicator 154 toapplicator interface 108 and decoupling of applicator 154 fromapplicator interface 108. In one example, retainer 184 is a disk-likeelement that is rotatable to orient retainer 184 between the at leastone retainer orientation and the at least one releasing orientation.

Referring generally to FIG. 1 and particularly to, e.g., FIG. 5,receptacle interface 198 of applicator 154 comprises receiver 199,configured to receive and sealingly engage leading end 167 of cartridge166. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizesexample 38 of the present disclosure, wherein example 38 also includesthe subject matter according to any one of examples 34-37, above.

Reception of leading end 167 of cartridge 166 in receiver 199 ofreceptacle interface 198 of applicator 154 and sealing engagement ofleading end 167 of cartridge 166 in receiver 199 of receptacle interface198 of applicator 154 ensures glutinous substance 168 does not leak frominterface between leading end 167 of cartridge 166 and applicator 154 asglutinous substance 168 flows from cartridge 166 to applicator 154.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1-10 and particularly to FIG. 11A, method200 of delivering glutinous substance 168 from cartridge 166 toapplicator 154 is disclosed. Method 200 comprises (block 202) receivingcartridge 166 inside sleeve 106 through inlet 124 of sleeve 106 whilepressure cap 110, located proximate inlet 124 of sleeve 106, is in anopen position. Cartridge 166 has leading end 167 and trailing end 169.Method 200 also comprises (block 204) moving pressure cap 110, locatedproximate inlet 124 of sleeve 106, into a closed position to sealinglycouple pressure cap 110 with trailing end 169 of cartridge 166 and tosealingly couple applicator 154 with leading end 167 of cartridge 166.Method 200 further comprises (block 206) applying pressure to glutinoussubstance 168 in cartridge 166 through pressure input 118 of pressurecap 110 to urge glutinous substance 168 from cartridge 166 intoapplicator 154. Additionally, method 200 comprises (block 208) movingpressure cap 110 into an open position to provide clearance sufficientfor removal of cartridge 166 from sleeve 106 through inlet 124 of sleeve106. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizesexample 39 of the present disclosure.

Method 200 facilitates a reduction in the labor, time, and inaccuraciesassociated with the application of glutinous substances onto surfaces ofworkpieces. Cartridge 166 provides modular containment of glutinoussubstance 168. Sleeve 106 enables a secure coupling of cartridge 166relative to applicator 154. Movement of pressure cap 110 between theopen position and closed position allows both access to sleeve 106 forthe insertion of cartridge 166 into sleeve 106 and the application ofpressure to cartridge 166 for urging glutinous substance 168 out ofsleeve 106. With cartridge 166 received within sleeve 106 and pressurecap 110 in a closed position, cartridge 166 is sealed with applicator154 to enable sealed flow of glutinous substance 168 from cartridge 166to applicator 154 via the application of pressure to glutinous substance168 in cartridge 166.

Referring generally to, e.g., FIGS. 1-3 and 7 and particularly to FIG.11A, according to method 200, (block 210) pressure cap 110 is pivotallycoupled to arm 115. Moving pressure cap 110 into the closed positioncomprises (block 212) rotating arm 115 in a first rotational directionabout axis 117. Axis 117 is fixed relative to sleeve 106 andperpendicular to central axis 121 of sleeve 106. Moving pressure cap 110into the open position comprises (block 222) rotating arm 115 about axis117 in a second rotational direction, opposite the first rotationaldirection. The preceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizesexample 40 of the present disclosure, wherein example 40 also includesthe subject matter according to example 39, above.

Arm 115, being pivotable about axis 117 that is fixed relative to sleeve106 and is perpendicular to central axis 121 of sleeve 106, enablespressure cap 110 to be moved between the closed position, to sealinglyengage trailing end 169 of cartridge 166, and the open position, toprovide clearance sufficient for insertion of cartridge 166 insidesleeve 106 through inlet 124 of sleeve 106 and ejection of cartridge 166from sleeve 106. In other words, arm 115 allows pressure cap 110 to bepivoted into sealed engagement with cartridge 166 and pivoted away fromcartridge 166 to allow cartridge 166 to be inserted into or removed fromsleeve 106.

Referring generally to, e.g., FIGS. 1-3 and 6 and particularly to FIG.11A, according to method 200, moving pressure cap 110 into the closedposition comprises (block 214) torsionally biasing pressure cap 110relative to arm 115. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 41 of the present disclosure, wherein example 41also includes the subject matter according to example 40, above.

Because arm 115, to which pressure cap 110 is coupled, rotates to movepressure cap 110 into the closed positioned, in sealed engagement withtrailing end 169 of cartridge 166, enabling pressure cap 110 to pivotrelative to arm 115 allows pressure cap 110 to maintain coaxialalignment with trailing end 169 of cartridge 166 as arm 115 rotates. Bytorsionally biasing pressure cap 110, biasing element 122 ensurespressure cap 110 is coaxially aligned with trailing end 169 of cartridge166 as pressure cap 110 initially engages trailing end 169 of cartridge166. In this manner, pressure cap 110 can properly engage and seatwithin trailing end 169 of cartridge 166 without binding with orcrookedly entering trailing end 169 of cartridge 166.

Referring generally to, e.g., FIGS. 1-4 and 7 and particularly to FIG.11B, method 200 further comprises (block 224) releasably lockingpressure cap 110 in the closed position. The preceding subject matter ofthis paragraph characterizes example 42 of the present disclosure,wherein example 42 also includes the subject matter according to any oneof examples 39-41, above.

Releasably locking pressure cap 110 in the closed position preventsdisengagement between pressure cap 110 and cartridge 166 should actuator114 fail. In other words, in the event actuator 114 fails to urgepressure cap 110 in closed position, such as due to loss of pressure toor malfunction of actuator 114, while pressure is applied to glutinoussubstance 168 in cartridge 166, releasably locking pressure cap 110 inthe closed position prevents pressure within cartridge 116 frominadvertently moving pressure cap 110 out of the closed position.

Referring generally to, e.g., FIG. 1 and particularly to FIG. 11B,according to method 200, moving pressure cap 110 into the closedposition comprises (block 226) pneumatically causing actuator 114,coupled to pressure cap 110, to have a first length. Releasably lockingpressure cap 110 in the closed position comprises (block 228)mechanically locking pressure cap 110 in the closed position. Thepreceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 43 ofthe present disclosure, wherein example 43 also includes the subjectmatter according to example 42, above.

Actuator 114 facilitates automated movement of pressure cap 110 into theclosed position. Mechanically locking pressure cap 110 in the closedposition provides a secure and reliable way to prevent disengagementbetween pressure cap 110 and cartridge 166 should actuator 114 fail.

Referring generally to, e.g., FIGS. 1-4 and 7 and particularly to FIG.11B, according to method 200, (block 230) lock mechanism 112 is used tomechanically lock pressure cap 110 in the closed position. When lockmechanism 112 is in a locked position, (block 232) lock mechanism 112remains in the locked position if actuator 114 loses pressure. Thepreceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 44 ofthe present disclosure, wherein example 44 also includes the subjectmatter according to example 43, above.

Using lock mechanism 112 to mechanically lock pressure cap 110 in theclosed position prevents disengagement between pressure cap 110 andcartridge 166 should actuator 114 fail. In other words, in the eventactuator 114 fails to urge pressure cap 110 in closed position, such asdue to loss of pressure to or malfunction of actuator 114, whilepressure is applied to glutinous substance 168 in cartridge 166, lockmechanism 112 locks pressure cap 110 in the closed position to preventpressure within cartridge 116 from inadvertently moving pressure cap 110out of the closed position.

Referring generally to, e.g., FIGS. 1-4 and 7 and particularly to FIG.11B, according to method 200, moving pressure cap 110 into the openposition comprises (block 234) pneumatically causing actuator 114 tohave a second length different from the first length. The precedingsubject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 45 of the presentdisclosure, wherein example 45 also includes the subject matteraccording to any one of examples 43 or 44, above.

Actuator 114 facilitates automated movement of pressure cap 110 into theopen position.

Referring generally to, e.g., FIGS. 1, 4, and 7 and particularly to FIG.11B, method 200 further comprises (block 236) disabling operation ofactuator 114 while pressure is applied to glutinous substance 168 incartridge 166 through pressure input 118 of pressure cap 110. Thepreceding subject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 46 ofthe present disclosure, wherein example 46 also includes the subjectmatter according to example 45, above.

Disabling operation of actuator 114 while pressure is being applied toglutinous substance 168 in cartridge 166 through pressure input 118 ofpressure cap 110 prevents actuator 114 from inadvertently openingpressure cap 110 while cartridge 166 is pressurized. Preventing pressurecap 110 from opening while pressure is being applied to glutinoussubstance 168 due to inadvertent actuation of actuator 114 ensurespressure within cartridge 166 is not inadvertently released.

Referring generally to, e.g., FIGS. 1-4 and 6-8 and particularly to FIG.11B, according to method 200, applying pressure to glutinous substance168 in cartridge 166 through pressure input 118 of pressure cap 110comprises (block 216) introducing a pressurized gas into cartridge 166through pressure input 118. The preceding subject matter of thisparagraph characterizes example 47 of the present disclosure, whereinexample 47 also includes the subject matter according to any one ofexamples 39-46, above.

Introducing a pressurized gas into cartridge 166 through pressure input118 enables precise application of pneumatic pressure to glutinoussubstance 168 in cartridge 166 to precisely control the flow ofglutinous substance 168 out of cartridge 166 and into applicator 154.Moreover, introducing a pressurized gas into cartridge 166 throughpressure input 118 facilitates the use of automated pneumatic controlsto control the pneumatic operation of pressure input 118 of pressure cap110.

Referring generally to, e.g., FIGS. 1-4 and 6-8 and particularly to FIG.11A, method 200 further comprises (block 220) sensing a temperature ofglutinous substance 168 in applicator 154. The pressure applied toglutinous substance 168 in cartridge 166 through pressure input 118 ofpressure cap 110 varies responsive to, at least in part, the temperatureof glutinous substance 168 sensed in applicator 154. The precedingsubject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 48 of the presentdisclosure, wherein example 48 also includes the subject matteraccording to example 47, above.

Sensing the temperature of glutinous substance 168 enables detection ofthe temperature of glutinous substance 168 in applicator 154. The sensedtemperature of glutinous substance 168 in applicator 154 can be used tocontrol the rate at which glutinous substance 168 flows from cartridge166 to applicator 154. Varying the pressure applied to glutinoussubstance 168 in cartridge 166 responsive to, at least in part, thesensed temperature of glutinous substance 168 facilitates a precise andpredictable flow of glutinous substance 168 from applicator to surface172 of workpiece 170.

Referring generally to, e.g., FIGS. 1-4 and 6-8 and particularly to FIG.11A, method 200 further comprising (block 218) sensing a pressure ofglutinous substance 168 in applicator 154. The pressure applied toglutinous substance 168 in cartridge 166 through pressure input 118 ofpressure cap 110 varies responsive to, at least in part, the pressure ofglutinous substance 168 sensed in applicator 154. The preceding subjectmatter of this paragraph characterizes example 49 of the presentdisclosure, wherein example 49 also includes the subject matteraccording to any one of examples 47 or 48, above.

Sensing the pressure of glutinous substance 168 enables detection of thepressure of glutinous substance 168 in applicator 154. The sensedpressure of glutinous substance 168 in applicator 154 can be used tocontrol the rate at which glutinous substance 168 flows from cartridge166 to applicator 154. Varying the pressure applied to glutinoussubstance 168 in cartridge 166 responsive to, at least in part, thesensed pressure of glutinous substance 168 facilitates a precise andpredictable flow of glutinous substance 168 from applicator 154 tosurface 172 of workpiece 170.

Referring generally to, e.g., FIGS. 1, 4, 5, 9, and 10 and particularlyto FIG. 11B, method 200 further comprises (block 238) applying pressureto cartridge 166 inside sleeve 106 to eject cartridge 166 from withinsleeve 106 through inlet 124 of sleeve 106 when pressure cap 110 is inthe open position. The preceding subject matter of this paragraphcharacterizes example 50 of the present disclosure, wherein example 50also includes the subject matter according to any one of examples 39-49,above.

Applying pressure to cartridge 166 inside sleeve 106 to eject cartridge166 from within sleeve 106 through inlet 124 of sleeve 106 facilitatesthe removal of cartridge 166 from sleeve 106, such as after glutinoussubstance 168 has been emptied from cartridge 166. In some examples,when cartridge 166 is received within sleeve 106, because only a smallportion of cartridge 166 may be accessible for gripping from outsidesleeve 106 or because cartridge 166 may become at least partially stuckwithin sleeve 106, it may be difficult to remove cartridge 166 fromsleeve 106. Pressure input 130 facilitates ease of removal of cartridge166 from sleeve 106 by increasing pressure within sleeve 106 proximateoutlet 128 of sleeve 106, which urges movement of cartridge 166 throughsleeve 106 towards and out of inlet 124 of sleeve 106. Pressure cap 110being in the open position when pressure is applied to cartridge 166inside sleeve 106 ensures pressure cap 110 does not obstruct theejection of cartridge 166 through inlet 124 of sleeve 106.

Referring generally to, e.g., FIGS. 1, 5, and 8-10 and particularly toFIG. 11B, method 200 further comprises (block 240) releasably retainingapplicator 154 relative to sleeve 106. The preceding subject matter ofthis paragraph characterizes example 51 of the present disclosure,wherein example 51 also includes the subject matter according to any oneof examples 39-50, above.

Releasably retaining applicator 154 relative to sleeve 106 promotes easein removing applicator 154 relative to sleeve 106 and retainingapplicator 154 relative to sleeve 106. In some examples, releasablyretaining applicator 154 relative to sleeve 106 promotesinterchangeability of multiple applicators 154 relative to sleeve 106.

Referring generally to, e.g., FIGS. 1, 5, and 8-10 and particularly toFIG. 11B, according to method 200, releasably retaining applicator 154relative to sleeve 106 comprises (block 242) locating receptacleinterface 198 of applicator 154 within receptacle 182 with a runningfit. Receptacle 182 is fixed relative to sleeve 106. The precedingsubject matter of this paragraph characterizes example 52 of the presentdisclosure, wherein example 52 also includes the subject matteraccording to example 51, above.

The running fit between receptacle 182 of applicator interface 108 andreceptacle interface 198, along with retainer 184, ensures applicator154 is securely coupled to applicator interface 108 by providing asufficiently tight fit between receptacle 182 of applicator interface108 and receptacle interface 198 of applicator 154 to prevent noticeableplay therebetween.

Referring generally to, e.g., FIG. 1 and particularly to FIG. 11B,according to method 200, locating receptacle interface 198 of applicator154 within receptacle 182 with the running fit comprises (block 244) 3-Dprinting receptacle interface 198 of applicator 154 into a shape largerthan receptacle 182 and (block 246) machining away a portion ofreceptacle interface 198 of applicator 154. The preceding subject matterof this paragraph characterizes example 53 of the present disclosure,wherein example 53 also includes the subject matter according to example52, above.

3-D printing receptacle interface 198 of applicator 154 into a shapelarger than receptacle 182 and machining away a portion of receptacleinterface 198 of applicator 154 reduces manufacturing and materialcosts, while ensuring receptacle interface 198 of applicator 154 andreceptacle 182 provide a running fit.

Examples of the present disclosure may be described in the context ofaircraft manufacturing and service method 1100 as shown in FIG. 12 andaircraft 1102 as shown in FIG. 13. During pre-production, illustrativemethod 1100 may include specification and design (block 1104) ofaircraft 1102 and material procurement (block 1106). During production,component and subassembly manufacturing (block 1108) and systemintegration (block 1110) of aircraft 1102 may take place. Thereafter,aircraft 1102 may go through certification and delivery (block 1112) tobe placed in service (block 1114). While in service, aircraft 1102 maybe scheduled for routine maintenance and service (block 1116). Routinemaintenance and service may include modification, reconfiguration,refurbishment, etc. of one or more systems of aircraft 1102.

Each of the processes of illustrative method 1100 may be performed orcarried out by a system integrator, a third party, and/or an operator(e.g., a customer). For the purposes of this description, a systemintegrator may include, without limitation, any number of aircraftmanufacturers and major-system subcontractors; a third party mayinclude, without limitation, any number of vendors, subcontractors, andsuppliers; and an operator may be an airline, leasing company, militaryentity, service organization, and so on.

As shown in FIG. 13, aircraft 1102 produced by illustrative method 1100may include airframe 1118 with a plurality of high-level systems 1120and interior 1122. Examples of high-level systems 1120 include one ormore of propulsion system 1124, electrical system 1126, hydraulic system1128, and environmental system 1130. Any number of other systems may beincluded. Although an aerospace example is shown, the principlesdisclosed herein may be applied to other industries, such as theautomotive industry. Accordingly, in addition to aircraft 1102, theprinciples disclosed herein may apply to other vehicles, e.g., landvehicles, marine vehicles, space vehicles, etc.

Apparatus(es) and method(s) shown or described herein may be employedduring any one or more of the stages of the manufacturing and servicemethod 1100. For example, components or subassemblies corresponding tocomponent and subassembly manufacturing (block 1108) may be fabricatedor manufactured in a manner similar to components or subassembliesproduced while aircraft 1102 is in service (block 1114). Also, one ormore examples of the apparatus(es), method(s), or combination thereofmay be utilized during production stages 1108 and 1110, for example, bysubstantially expediting assembly of or reducing the cost of aircraft1102. Similarly, one or more examples of the apparatus or methodrealizations, or a combination thereof, may be utilized, for example andwithout limitation, while aircraft 1102 is in service (block 1114)and/or during maintenance and service (block 1116).

Different examples of the apparatus(es) and method(s) disclosed hereininclude a variety of components, features, and functionalities. Itshould be understood that the various examples of the apparatus(es) andmethod(s) disclosed herein may include any of the components, features,and functionalities of any of the other examples of the apparatus(es)and method(s) disclosed herein in any combination, and all of suchpossibilities are intended to be within the scope of the presentdisclosure.

Many modifications of examples set forth herein will come to mind to oneskilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains having thebenefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and theassociated drawings.

Therefore, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not tobe limited to the specific examples illustrated and that modificationsand other examples are intended to be included within the scope of theappended claims. Moreover, although the foregoing description and theassociated drawings describe examples of the present disclosure in thecontext of certain illustrative combinations of elements and/orfunctions, it should be appreciated that different combinations ofelements and/or functions may be provided by alternative implementationswithout departing from the scope of the appended claims. Accordingly,parenthetical reference numerals in the appended claims are presentedfor illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scopeof the claimed subject matter to the specific examples provided in thepresent disclosure.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of delivering a glutinous substance froma cartridge to an applicator, the method comprising steps of: receivingthe cartridge inside a sleeve through an inlet of the sleeve while apressure cap, located proximate the inlet of the sleeve, is in an openposition, wherein the cartridge has a leading end and a trailing end;moving the pressure cap, located proximate the inlet of the sleeve, intoa closed position to sealingly couple the pressure cap with the trailingend of the cartridge and to sealingly couple the applicator with theleading end of the cartridge; applying pressure to the glutinoussubstance in the cartridge through a pressure input of the pressure capto urge the glutinous substance from the cartridge into the applicator;moving the pressure cap into the open position to provide clearancesufficient for removal of the cartridge from the sleeve through theinlet of the sleeve; and releasably locking the pressure cap in theclosed position; wherein: the pressure cap is pivotally coupled to anarm; the step of moving the pressure cap into the closed positioncomprises rotating the arm in a first rotational direction about an axisthat is fixed relative to the sleeve and that is perpendicular to acentral axis of the sleeve; and the step of moving the pressure cap intothe open position comprises rotating the arm about the axis in a secondrotational direction, opposite the first rotational direction.
 2. Themethod according to claim 1, wherein the step of moving the pressure capinto the closed position comprises torsionally biasing the pressure caprelative to the arm.
 3. The method according to claim 1, wherein: thestep of moving the pressure cap into the closed position comprisespneumatically causing an actuator coupled to the pressure cap, to have afirst length; and the step of releasably locking the pressure cap in theclosed position comprises mechanically locking the pressure cap in theclosed position.
 4. The method according to claim 3, wherein: a lockmechanism is used to mechanically lock the pressure cap in the closedposition; and when the lock mechanism is in a locked position, the lockmechanism remains in the locked position if the actuator loses pressure.5. The method according to claim 3, wherein: moving the pressure capinto the open position comprises pneumatically causing the actuator tohave a second length different from the first length.
 6. The methodaccording to claim 5, further comprising disabling operation of theactuator while pressure is applied to the glutinous substance in thecartridge through the pressure input of the pressure cap.
 7. The methodaccording to claim 1, wherein the step of applying pressure to theglutinous substance in the cartridge through the pressure input of thepressure cap comprises introducing a pressurized gas into the cartridgethrough the pressure input.
 8. The method according to claim 7, furthercomprising sensing a temperature of the glutinous substance in theapplicator, wherein the pressure applied to the glutinous substance inthe cartridge through the pressure input of the pressure cap variesresponsive to, at least in part, the temperature of the glutinoussubstance sensed in the applicator.
 9. The method according to claim 7,further comprising sensing a pressure of the glutinous substance in theapplicator, wherein the pressure applied to the glutinous substance inthe cartridge through the pressure input of the pressure cap variesresponsive to, at least in part, the pressure of the glutinous substancesensed in the applicator.
 10. The method according to claim 1, furthercomprising applying pressure to the cartridge inside the sleeve to ejectthe cartridge from within the sleeve through the inlet of the sleevewhen the pressure cap is in the open position.
 11. The method accordingto claim 1, further comprising a step of releasably retaining theapplicator relative to the sleeve.
 12. The method according to claim 11,wherein the step of releasably retaining the applicator relative to thesleeve comprises a step of locating a receptacle interface of theapplicator within a receptacle, fixed relative to the sleeve, with arunning fit.
 13. The method according to claim 12, wherein the step oflocating the receptacle interface of the applicator within thereceptacle with the running fit comprises: 3-D printing the receptacleinterface of the applicator into a shape larger than the receptacle; andmachining away a portion of the receptacle interface of the applicator.14. The method according to claim 8, further comprising sensing apressure of the glutinous substance in the applicator, wherein thepressure applied to the glutinous substance in the cartridge through thepressure input of the pressure cap varies responsive to, at least inpart, the pressure of the glutinous substance sensed in the applicator.15. The method according to claim 2, wherein the step of applyingpressure to the glutinous substance in the cartridge through thepressure input of the pressure cap comprises introducing a pressurizedgas into the cartridge through the pressure input.
 16. The methodaccording to claim 7, further comprising applying pressure to thecartridge inside the sleeve to eject the cartridge from within thesleeve through the inlet of the sleeve when the pressure cap is in theopen position.
 17. The method according to claim 2, further comprisingreleasably locking the pressure cap in the closed position.
 18. Themethod according to claim 4, wherein the step of moving the pressure capinto the open position comprises pneumatically causing the actuator tohave a second length different from the first length.
 19. A method ofdelivering a glutinous substance from a cartridge to an applicator, themethod comprising: receiving the cartridge inside a sleeve through aninlet of the sleeve while a pressure cap, located proximate the inlet ofthe sleeve, is in an open position, wherein the cartridge has a leadingend and a trailing end; moving the pressure cap, located proximate theinlet of the sleeve, into a closed position to sealingly couple thepressure cap with the trailing end of the cartridge and to sealinglycouple the applicator with the leading end of the cartridge; applyingpressure to the glutinous substance in the cartridge through a pressureinput of the pressure cap to urge the glutinous substance from thecartridge into the applicator; moving the pressure cap into the openposition to provide clearance sufficient for removal of the cartridgefrom the sleeve through the inlet of the sleeve; and rotating aretainer, relative to a receptacle that is cross-sectionallycomplementary to a receptacle interface of the applicator, to releasablyretain the applicator so that the applicator is sealingly coupled withthe leading end of the cartridge with the pressure cap in the closedposition.
 20. The method according to claim 19, further comprisingreleasably locking the pressure cap in the closed position, wherein: thepressure cap is pivotally coupled to an arm; the step of moving thepressure cap into the closed position comprises rotating the arm in afirst rotational direction about an axis that is fixed relative to thesleeve and that is perpendicular to a central axis of the sleeve; andthe step of moving the pressure cap into the open position comprisesrotating the arm about the axis in a second rotational direction,opposite the first rotational direction.